13 Reasons Why Puerto Escondido Is Definitely Worth Visiting (2024)

Situated on the Oaxacan Coast, Puerto Escondido is rapidly becoming a top destination for tourists from all corners of the earth. From spotless beaches and a laid-back vibe to tremendous parties and nightclubs, it has everything for everyone, and it's no wonder people flock to this spot year in and out. Boasting lots of things to see and do, falling head over heels for this place is inevitable.

Here are the 13 reasons to explore Mexico's best-preserved beach town, Puerto Escondido.

13 Surfing

Being a surfing hub for Mexico, surfing enthusiasts flock to this spot year in and out to ride the waves of this coast. With the right locks to surf at each level, surfers, from beginner level to pros, are sure to have a good time. Skilled surfers can head to Zicatela beach, a popular surfing spot for experts only. Playa Carrizalillo is ideal for beginners with its smaller, more peaceful tides. Intermediate surfers, on the other hand, can hit the Playa La Punta.

Related: 8 Reasons To Make Mexico Your First International Vacation

12 Watching Whales, Sea Turtles, And Dolphins

Different types of whales and dolphins call this utopia home. For visitors craving to see all these three divine animals simultaneously, visiting between December and March is excellent. Outside these months, however, whales relocate and cannot be seen. Sea turtles and dolphins, on the other hand, can be seen throughout the year. Early dawns are the most suitable for tourists to take the boat out and increase their odds of eyeing and capturing the whales. Though waking up can be daunting, seeing these marvelous creatures makes sacrificing some sleep worthwhile.

11 Breathtaking Beaches

Puerto Escondido is on every, if not all, beach-goer's bucket list. With various beaches, those who love the water can surf, swim, sunbathe, and experience all the shores have to offer. Playa Carrillo, one of the mesmerizing beaches in this area, is a must-explore. Other beaches begging exploration are the Playa Bacocho, ideal for strolling around and relaxing, and Playa Zicatela, most suitable for surfing or watching surfers do their thing. Visiting this zone during the weekday is perfect for those longing for some serenity, as the place is less crowded.

Related: 10 Underrated Mexico Destinations Perfect for Couples

10 Go Kayaking

Kayaking the Manialtepec Lagoon is another great reason to visit this wonderland. Harboring various species of equatorial birds and animals, guests can bird-watch, sport fish, and learn about the wildlife in this location as they paddle through the mangrove tunnels with the guides' help. In addition, with the tours kicking off early in the daybreak, kayakers can enjoy the glorious sunrise view.

9 Explore The La Reforma Waterfall

For adventurers looking for places to explore in Puerto Escondido, taking a trip to La Reforma Waterfall is a great way to have a fun-filled day. The fascinating waterfall creates a lush and scenic surrounding. Besides absorbing the free fresh air given by Mother Nature, vacationers can take selfies and swim in its therapeutic waters. The serene ambiance is also perfect for travelers desiring to de-stress and let go of life's troubles.

8 Party

Being a well-known party town, it's no wonder bars are spread within it. Though life at this harbor may appear easy-going and sluggish during the day, the nightlife turns wild once the sun gives way to the night. Visitors can go to the fantastic bars, such as Bar Fly, with great DJs, and dance the night away, or to Casa Babylon for some splendid aura and live music. Party lovers can also join the jungle raves and have fun.

7 Release Baby Turtles

Taking place in Bacocho Beach, turtle protection is a significant assignment. Travelers can partake in releasing baby turtles and be part of this mysterious life cycle. The release happens daily near dusk, around 5 pm. However, visitors can arrive earlier to enjoy the sparkling waters and view the captivating vista. Families with youngsters are not forgotten, as people of all ages can encounter this paranormal process. The Turtle Release Center also offers educational discussions about endangered sea species. It also directs the guests on how to free the turtles adequately.

6 Savor A Meal By The Beach

Whether as a solo traveler or with a loved one, relishing delectable seafood by the beach is a must-do thing for visitors to this heavenly place. Rinconada, a shopping center between Playa Carrizalillo and Playa Bacocho, consists of a one-sided line of shops and eateries. It provides its guests with an impeccable atmosphere for dining. Here, food lovers can eat in the soothing breeze from the shore as they also gaze at the waves kissing the beach. Travelers can also check out Adoquin, a busy site with plenty of stores, hotels, and restaurants along the sea.

5 Culture

What better way to learn about a culture than interacting with the locals? Well, the Puerto Escondido Fiestas de Noviembre offers its visitors a chance to do so. From surfing contests, food festivals, and musical shows to fashion exhibitions, among other intriguing things, the extravaganzas keep the town alive, particularly with November being a low season. Besides having a good time, guests are guaranteed to learn from this educational festivity.

4 Relax At Mazunte

For tourists, craving relaxation away from the active city life, a trip to Mazunte, a small town south of Puerto Escondido, is a must-have on their bucket list. It is an area for guests to truly de-stress, forget deadlines, and detach from the rest of the planet. Besides appreciating the lovely beaches, this peculiar town has an easy way of life, leaving its visitors rejuvenated.

3 Learn Spanish

Mexico is, of course, a Spanish-speaking country, and so it is better to be able to speak Spanish - or at least know the essential words and phrases of Spanish. Spanish is an easy language to learn and one that will frequently come in handy, even in parts of the United States. Take the time while in Puerto Escondido to learn Spanish and see how the local people appreciate the effort. Not everyone in Puerto Escondido or Mexico is going to be fluent in English.

2 Take A Trip To The Hierve El Agua Frozen Falls

The Hierve el Agua Frozen Falls have the appearance of being frozen waterfalls as they fall off a 50 to the 90-meter-high cliff. They are actually travertine rock formations (similar to those of Pamukkale in Turkey). They also have a number of natural and artificial pools (one of which is very close to the edge of the sheer cliff). They have formed over thousands of years and are well worth a visit. They are only for those with extended trips in Puerto Escondido, as even though they are in the same state of Oaxaca, they are around 8 hour drive away (so they are part of a multiday trip into the hinterland).

1 Visit The Ancient Monte Albán Ruins

As part of the Oaxaca state hinterland tour, visitors should also explore the Monte Ablan ruins. While the ruins around Mexico City may much more famous, Monte Alban is one of the oldest sites in Mesoamerica. It was probably founded around 500 BC and peaked between 100 BC and 200 AD. It declined around 500 to 750 AD and was eventually abandoned. It had a massive impact on the later civilizations and form an important part of the history of Mexico. The architectural ruins today extend for around four miles and are located a short distance from Oaxaca City.